Description
The Calamondin orange tree is an acid citrus fruit originating from China as ‘acid orange’. This tree is a cross between a kumquat and a mandarin orange. This plant performs very well as a patio plant or even trimmed as a hedge. This plant is hardier to cold than any other citrus.
The fruit is small and orange and resembles a small tangerine. The peel is thin, yellow to orange and easily separable. The fruit has a very sweet smell but a slightly sour taste, whereas the skin is surprisingly sweet.
Position
The Calamondin orange tree thrives in hot, humid conditions and full sun.
Plant your trees about 3.5 to 5 metres apart to allow for their canopy to spread.
Size
Depending on the soil, climate conditions and care, your mandarin orange tree can grow to a height of between 3 and 6 metres tall.
Soil Type
Calamondin oranges need well-draining, healthy sandy soil with a neutral pH. If your soil’s drainage isn’t optimal, plant your mandarin tree on a bit of a mound so the soil doesn’t become waterlogged.
Mulch
This tree thrives with a layer of mulch to protect its roots from drying out. Organic mulches like pine needles and pinebark work very well.
Watering
Your tree needs to be well watered for the best fruits. In summer and spring, increase your watering so that the tree doesn’t dry out in the heat.
Fertilising
To get the most out of your Calamondin orange tree, feed it with fertiliser in spring and summer. If the leaves start to yellow, your plant may not have enough magnesium. Apply a little Epsom salt to the tree’s dripline (where the leaves extend their reach).
Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich Berry/All-plant Fertiliser (which is excellent for citrus). For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months.
Pruning
You may decide to prune your tree if you need to keep its spread under control, prefer a particular shape, or have diseased or dead branches that are sapping it of its vital energy. This tree grows well as a hedge.
Harvesting
Pick your calamondin oranges when they have turned from yellow orange colour all over. Clip or twist them carefully from the tree. If they’re ripe and you know rains are coming, try to take them off before the rains, as these can cause the fruits to spoil.
Pest and Disease Management
It is important to watch out for pests like citrus psylla, aphids, scale insects, mites, and diseases like mildew.
We recommend Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) to prevent the spread of these pests and diseases. Hose the tree first, to remove some of the pests, and then spray well with EM Control. As the tree grows larger it will be healthy and pests will be a thing of the past. It is organic and more affordable than most other products.
Our Neem Oil Pesticide is also most effective at controlling and preventing garden pests.
